Maintenance Training Research Articles

Staff shortages in hospitality and tourism industries: how technology influences?

PurposeThis paper offers an introduction and sets the stage for the theme issue. It describes the methodology used and highlights the articles that address the strategic question of how hospitality and tourism industries can minimize the effects of labor shortages by embracing advanced technologies.Design/methodology/approachThis special issue explores the potential of automation, artificial intelligence, robotics and advanced data analytics in mitigating staff shortages. Automation streamlines operations, AI enhances customer interactions, robotics reimagines service delivery and data analytics informs strategic decisions. The study addresses a strategic question by combining literature reviews, data analysis, expert insights from practitioners and practical solution recommendations.FindingsThe theme issue presents research that explores how advanced technologies can be effectively utilized to mitigate labor shortages in the hospitality and tourism industries. Automation streamlines operations, AI enhances customer interactions, robotics reimagines service delivery and data analytics informs strategic decisions. However, successful integration of technology requires careful planning, training and ongoing maintenance to ensure a balance between technology and human interaction. By embracing these technologies, businesses can better cope with staffing deficits and position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving environment.Originality/valueThis special issue explores the ways in which advanced technologies, such as automation, AI and robotics, can be leveraged to alleviate the labor shortage crisis faced by the hospitality and tourism industries worldwide. From developed to developing countries, these industries are grappling with severe labor shortages, particularly in terms of skilled workers. The articles presented in this issue offer valuable insights and strategies for addressing this pressing issue.

Identification of wheel surface cracks under high noise environment based on texture segmentation and combination descriptor

ABSTRACT The wheel is easy to produce defects after a long time of use. Train maintenance technicians must overhaul and maintain train wheels on time and regularly to ensure the safe operation of trains. The existing manual detection has disadvantages of low efficiency and strong subjectivity. Compared with other defect forms, the identification accuracy of wheel surface crack is low due to the high noise and weak features, this paper proposes a feature enhancement and identification method for wheel surface crack based on texture segmentation and combination descriptor. Firstly, a morphology-based texture segmentation method is proposed to separate cracks and noise. Then, the crack characteristics are enhanced by filtering. Finally, a crack diagnosis method based on combination descriptor is proposed, which is evaluated from two dimensions of crack morphology and distribution characteristics. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, the images of the wheel collected from the freight car workshop were used for verification, and the detection rate reached 93.78%. The experimental results show that the proposed method is more effective in the case of weak crack features and surface dirt, and can better adapt to the identification of surface cracks on wheel in complex engineering applications.

Benefits of Virtual Reality Training for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Skill Acquisition and Maintenance

Objectives To investigate the benefits of virtual reality (VR) first-aid training in acquiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. Methods A total of 100 non-medical professional volunteers from Nanchang were selected in March 2021 using the convenience sampling method. They were randomly divided into two groups: the VR training group (VR group) and the traditional simulation scenario training group (traditional group). The VR Group underwent immersive virtual reality CPR training with interactive feedback, while the Traditional Group received standard simulation-based CPR training using mannequins and instructor guidance. After training, relevant data were collected for comparative analysis. Results The study revealed that the VR group consistently outperforming the traditional group in theoretical knowledge test (cardiac arrest recognition, chest compressions, airway management, and artificial respiration) scores at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-training (p < 0.05). Similarly, the VR group showed superior performance in overall skills test scores and individual CPR quality metrics at all post-training assessments. The VR group scored higher in total skills, assessment, post-resuscitation assessment, chest compressions (at 1, 3, and 6 months), airway opening, and artificial respiration compared to the traditional group (p < 0.05). Despite these findings, both groups exhibited a gradual decrease in skills test scores over time. Conclusions Virtual reality training can significantly improve non-medical professional volunteers’ CPR knowledge and skill levels, helping them master and maintain these competencies. However, a decrease in CPR knowledge and skills among the participants over time was observed after VR training, suggesting the need for further retraining sessions.

PELATIHAN PERAWATAN TRANSMISI MOTOR MATIC UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PERFORMA MOTOR DI DESA SUKAMUKTI

This service activity aims to train the community so that people can be more aware or given awareness about the maintenance of their personal vehicles, so that they are more independent in maintaining their motorbikes. Because many people only use their vehicles and don't think about maintenance, this will become a complex problem because over time, the vehicle's performance will decrease, and at any time this can have fatal consequences for the driver himself. From this problem, a solution was found by creating a motorbike maintenance training program to educate and introduce the procedures for maintaining motorbikes, especially in the automatic motorbike transmission section. The result of this activity is that residents understand more about the parts in automatic motorbike transmissions, how to maintain them, can practice the correct maintenance methods, and the dangers that arise if spare parts in automatic motorbike transmissions are not properly maintained.

The implementation of a "safety officer" program: an innovative approach to improve infection prevention and control practices in Ethiopia.

Effective infection prevention and control (IPC) was central to keeping healthcare workers (HCWs) safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as the pandemic continued, the maintenance of high-quality IPC practices waned, placing HCWs at increased risk of infection. A COVID-19 Safety Officer (SO) program was piloted by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded Reaching Impact, Saturation and Epidemic Control (RISE) project across two health facilities in Ethiopia, which trained clinical and non-clinical HCWs on IPC protocols to promote safe practices in patient care areas. We sought to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of the SO program in improving IPC practices within the clinical setting. This is a post-implementation evaluation of the SO program, implemented in two hospitals in Ethiopia between May 2022 and December 2022. Participants completed a 4-day course on COVID-19 epidemiology, IPC, safety communication, and learning theory as a part of the Training of Trainers component (n = 23), and were posted in clinical wards to provide staff training and support to maintain IPC protocols. The program was evaluated at 6 months using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. Effectiveness was measured using direct observation of IPC practices across intervention sites. Implementation outcomes were measured using surveys and qualitative interviews to capture training cascade, knowledge, comfort, acceptability, and maintenance. Participants were able to cascade training to an additional 167 clinical (67.6%) and 80 non-clinical (32.3%) staff across both sites. Direct observation of clinical staff at 6 months showed that 95% (59/62) wore at least a surgical mask with patients and were compliant with masking and/or distancing protocol. Clinical interviews revealed that SOs contributed to increased perceived comfort with screening and isolation procedures and environmental cleaning procedures. The SO training program was widely adopted, and effective in improving the implementation and comfort of maintaining IPC practices in clinical settings.

Healthcare Professionals' Knowledge, Skills, and Information Needs Pertaining to Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids in Swedish Nursing Homes: A Cross-Sectional Study and Psychometric Evaluation.

Hearing loss increases with age and due to increased life expectancy there is an increase in the number of individuals living with hearing loss. Older people with hearing loss residing in nursing homes are often dependent on healthcare professionals to help them with their hearing aids. The aim of the study was to translate and test the psychometric properties of a Swedish version of a Norwegian questionnaire and to assess healthcare professionals' self-reported knowledge, experience, skills, competence, and information needs pertaining to residents' hearing loss and hearing aids in the Swedish context. A Norwegian questionnaire was translated and adapted, and thereafter distributed to healthcare professionals in nine nursing homes in mid Sweden between 2020 and 2021, and 313 questionnaires were returned. An exploratory factor analysis demonstrated adequate factorial structure in six factors, satisfying construct validity and internal consistency for the Swedish version. A confirmatory factor analysis showed a satisfactory model fit. Healthcare professionals reported having the skills required for handling hearing aids, but reported lower scores for having received information about hearing aids, taking initiatives to refer residents to hearing healthcare units, and checking for earwax. Registered nurses generally reported lower perceived knowledge and practical skills concerning hearing aids. Seventy-seven percent of the total group reported a need for information regarding hearing aid maintenance. Healthcare professionals reported that the majority of nursing home residents need help with their hearing aids, but only a minority of these professionals had received education on hearing loss and training in hearing aid maintenance. Enrolled nurses and care assistants demonstrated higher levels of competence in handling hearing aids compared to registered nurses. In order to ensure safe and effective care, as well as facilitate communication among older adults with hearing loss, healthcare professionals need appropriate education and training.

Resistance Training And Muscle Maintenance In A Pancreatic Cancer Pilot Study

Resistance Training And Muscle Maintenance In A Pancreatic Cancer Pilot Study

Исследование параметров системы аспирации рельсошлифовального поезда

The rail-grinding technology is used for the railway network of the JSC RZhD to eliminate rail defects and extend the lifecycle of the railway track. In order to implement the rail-grinding technology, currently, rail-grinding trains RShP-48 are used. Rails are ground with special grinding wheels made of zirconium electro-corundum manufactured based on aluminum oxide and zirconium oxide, with bakelite organic bond as a binder. In addition, the abrasive wheel composition includes various chemical components. When an abrasive tool is destructed, grinding waste in the form of suspensions is generated during its mechanic work. The suspensions spread over long distances and negatively affect both the environment and the working conditions of the rail-grinding train maintenance personnel. Today, the company «Sinara — Transport Machines» is developing a new rail-grinding train RShP 2.0 with a pre-installed aspiration system to collect grinding wastes for further utilization. When developing the technical design of RShP 2.0, the main characteristics of the aspiration system have been determined. In order to confirm the efficiency of the obtained parameters of the aspiration system, laboratory tests have been conducted on a special rail-grinding unit. According to the results, the aspiration system with the stated technical characteristics absorbs the fine fraction of grinding products which is about 50 % of the total lost mass of the grinding wheel. Considering a large abrasive that sticks to the spark arrestors together with metal chips, the aspiration system RShP 2.0 will enable removing up to 90 % of grinding waste.

Development and Usability Evaluation of Augmented Reality Content for Light Maintenance Training of Air Spring for Electric Multiple Unit

The air spring for railway vehicles uses the air pressure inside the bellows to absorb vibration and shock to improve ride comfort and adjust the height of the underframe with a leveling valve to control stable driving of the train. This study developed augmented reality content that proposes a novel visual technology to effectively support the training of air spring maintenance tasks. In this study, a special effect algorithm that displays the dispersion and diffusion of fluid, and an algorithm that allows objects to be rotated at various angles, were proposed to increase the visual learning effect of fluid flow for maintenance. The FDG algorithm can increase the training effect by visualizing the leakage of air at a specific location when the air spring is damaged. In addition, the OAR algorithm allows an axisymmetric model, which is difficult to rotate by gestures, to be rotated at various angles, using a touch cube. Using these algorithms, maintenance personnel can effectively learn complex maintenance tasks. The UMUX and CSUQ surveys were conducted with 40 railway maintenance workers to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed educational content. The results showed that the UMUX, across 4 items, averaged as score of 81.56. Likewise, the CSUQ survey score, consisting of 19 questions in 4 categories, was very high, at 80.83. These results show that this AR content is usable for air spring maintenance and field training support.

PSPMoni: A Robust Wear Monitoring Method of Pantograph Slide Plate

The pantograph slide plate (PSP) plays a crucial role in the daily maintenance of trains by transmitting electrical energy from the contact wire (CW) to the train. Automatic monitoring of PSP wear condition is essential to notice abnormal wear promptly. In field applications, the target PSP edge may be obscured by the rear side PSP due to the operating attitude of the pantograph, leading to false detections and interfering with the field maintenance work. Meanwhile, the scenario of the PSP occlusion is characterized by randomness, which brings a considerable challenge to the reconstruction of the occluded edges. A robust PSP wear monitoring method is proposed to improve the performance of wear detection in field applications, considering the PSP occlusion scenarios. Firstly, the wear area of the PSP is localized using the YOLOv5s model. Subsequently, a fusion of the morphology method and the Canny operator is employed to extract the edge of the PSP. Different occlusion types are identified through detailed observation, and corresponding edge reconstruction methods are proposed for occluded edges. Finally, a robust wear condition evaluation method and five evaluation criteria for assessing wear condition are introduced. Experimental results demonstrate that the system achieves accurate PSP wear detection with an accuracy of 0.6 mm, and the reconstructed edge at occlusion locations closely matches the target edge compared to other automatic systems.

A virtual-reality spatial matching algorithm and its application on equipment maintenance support: System design and user study

Equipment maintenance support is an important technical measure to maintain the equipment’s expected performance. However, the current maintenance supports are mainly completed by maintainers under the guidance of technical manual or additional experts, which may be insufficient for some advanced equipment with rapid update rate and complex inner structure. The rising technology of augmented reality (AR) provides a new solution for equipment maintenance support, while one of the key issues limiting the practical application of AR in maintenance field is the spatial matching issue between virtual space and reality space. In this paper, a virtual-reality spatial matching algorithm is designed to accurately superimpose the virtual information to the corresponding actual scene on the AR glasses. In this algorithm, two methods are proposed to help achieve the stable matching of virtual space and reality space. In detail, to obtain the saliency map with less background interference and improved saliency detection accuracy, a saliency detection method is designed based on the super-pixel segmentation. To deal with the problems of uneven distribution on the feature points and weak robustness to the light changes, a feature extraction and matching method is proposed for acquiring the feature point matching set with the utilization of the obtained saliency map. Finally, an immersive equipment maintenance support system (IEMSS) is developed based on this spatial matching algorithm, which provides the maintainers with immediate and immersive guidance to improve the efficiency and safety in the maintenance task, as well as offers maintenance training for inexperienced maintainers with expanded virtual information in case of limited experts. Several comparative experiments are implemented to verify the effectiveness of proposed methods, and a user study of real system application is carried out to further evaluate the superiority of these methods when applied in the IEMSS.

Research on relay safety output control method based on BP neural network

With the continuous improvement and expansion of the metro network, the issues of train safety capacity, transportation effi-ciency and maintenance cost will become increasingly prominent. As an indispensable switching and controlling device of train safety control system, the health status of relay is the foundation of low-cost, high safety and efficient development of subway. This paper designs and proposes a BP neural network based relay safety output control method, this method utilizes BP neural net-work on the basis of improved two-take-two hardware structure to do fault prediction and safety state management with real-time retrieved detection signals, finally uploads operation and mainte-nance logs to the platform to guide subsequent fault trouble-shooting and maintenance.

Exploring different content creation and display methods for remote collaboration supported by eXtended reality: comparative analysis of distinct task scenarios

AbstractRemote collaboration using eXtended Reality (XR) has been explored to establish a common ground between physically distributed individuals. To achieve usable and impactful solutions, it is paramount to understand how different content creation and display methods contribute to the work effort of each member (remote and on-site). Additionally, explore how various task scenarios influence the collaborative process, specifically examining how activities with unique characteristics and complexities affect remote work. Hence, the question arises, ’How do different display and interaction methods impact the collaborative process within specific task domains?’ In this paper, two user studies with 30 distinct participants each are described, focusing on different content creation support (Laptop Computer; Video Wall &amp; Keyboard; Interactive Projector) and display methods (Hand-Held Device (HHD); HHD &amp; Articulated Support; Head-Mounted Display (HMD)) for remote and on-site collaborators respectively, during scenarios of remote guidance. Plus, different physical tasks were considered for each study (Lego pieces assembly; Tangram puzzle assembly; Maintenance procedures; Resource management in a map; Training activity in a laboratory classroom), to understand which method stands out according to the characteristics of the said tasks. We report the results obtained, suggesting that for the remote part of the collaborative process, using a Video Wall &amp; Keyboard appears to be more suitable for tasks associated with maintenance procedures, learning, and training activities. As for the on-site part, using HMD was considered the better option for maintenance, and learning tasks, closely followed by HHD &amp; Articulated Support.

Parallel Disassembly Sequence Planning Using a Discrete Whale Optimization Algorithm for Equipment Maintenance in Hydropower Station

In a hydropower station, equipment needs maintenance to ensure safe, stable, and efficient operation. And the essence of equipment maintenance is a disassembly sequence planning problem. However, the complexity arises from the vast number of components in a hydropower station, leading to a significant proliferation of potential combinations, which poses considerable challenges when devising optimal solutions for the maintenance process. Consequently, to improve maintenance efficiency and decrease maintenance time, a discrete whale optimization algorithm (DWOA) is proposed in this paper to achieve excellent parallel disassembly sequence planning (PDSP). To begin, composite nodes are added into the constraint relationship graph based on the characteristics of hydropower equipment, and disassembly time is chosen as the optimization objective. Subsequently, the DWOA is proposed to solve the PDSP problem by integrating the precedence preservative crossover mechanism, heuristic mutation mechanism, and repetitive pairwise exchange operator. Meanwhile, the hierarchical combination method is used to swiftly generate the initial population. To verify the viability of the proposed algorithm, a classic genetic algorithm (GA), simplified teaching–learning-based optimization (STLBO), and self-adaptive simplified swarm optimization (SSO) were employed for comparison in three maintenance projects. The experimental results and comparative analysis revealed that the proposed PDSP with DWOA achieved a reduced disassembly time of only 19.96 min in Experiment 3. Additionally, the values for standard deviation, average disassembly time, and the rate of minimum disassembly time were 0.3282, 20.31, and 71%, respectively, demonstrating its superior performance compared to the other algorithms. Furthermore, the method proposed in this paper addresses the inefficiencies in dismantling processes in hydropower stations and enhances visual representation for maintenance training by integrating Unity3D with intelligent algorithms.

Mechanical Properties of Adjacent Pile Bases in Collapsible Loess under Metro Depot

Metro transit construction has begun to develop rapidly in northwest China because of the acceleration of urbanization. Accordingly, metro depots are also regarded as an essential auxiliary facility for stopping, operation, and maintenance of trains. Meanwhile, many commercial buildings are constructed over metro depots to improve the utilization rate of land due to the increasingly scarce urban land resources, known as transit-oriented development (TOD). These buildings have a large covered area and transfer concentrated loads to the bases. Therefore, pile bases under metro depots have the bearing characteristics of undertaking large concentrated loads, while lesser loads are placed on the soil between the adjacent pile bases. Additionally, the main ground in northwest China is collapsible loess, so the collapsibility should also be considered. Based on the above background, this research performed static loading tests with and without immersion in a reduced scale of adjacent pile bases under a metro depot in Xi’an. The remolding process of natural loess could destroy its structure and the anisotropy of natural loess could also affect the test results. Therefore, four kinds of artificial collapsible loess with different mass ratios of barite powder, kaolin, river sand, cement, industrial salt, and calcium oxide were made by the free-drop method. This method could make the artificial loess simulate the structure of natural loess reasonably. Then, the artificial loess with the most similar properties to intact loess was selected by comparison. Finally, static loading tests with this artificial loess were implemented. The results showed that the ultimate bearing capacity was 4.5 kN. At the same time, the axial force decreased along depth, since the pile shaft friction was positive, and the load sharing ratio of pile tip force increased to 0.58 when the load exceeded 4.5 kN in the situation without immersion; the settlement of pile bases increased significantly after immersion, while the negative shaft friction occurred at the depth of −8 cm~−35 cm, and the load sharing ratio of pile tip force reached 0.92.

Musculoskeletal symptom survey and ergonomic assessments associated with maintenance tasks in the Indonesian railway industry

Introduction: Suboptimal work design of maintenance tasks in railway industries often leads to adverse health effects for workers. This study aimed to determine the ergonomic risk levels and assess the extent of musculoskeletal symptoms associated with train maintenance tasks in the Indonesian railway industry. Methods: The study involved 34 workers responsible for the daily handling of locomotive components within a railway maintenance workshop in Indonesia. A musculoskeletal symptom survey was conducted using the Indonesian version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to determine the prevalence and severity of such adverse health effects. Ergonomics assessments were conducted using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) to evaluate the risk level and contributing risk factors associated with the investigated maintained tasks. Results: Participants predominantly experienced musculoskeletal symptoms in the lower back (100%), followed by shoulders (91%), and knees (88%), while the highest severity was also observed in these regions. The ergonomics assessments revealed that over 50% of the maintenance tasks were categorized as either high or very high risk, with higher REBA section scores noted in the neck, leg, and trunk compared to those of the lower arm, wrist, and upper arm. Conclusion: Workers performing train maintenance tasks experience a high prevalence and moderate severity of musculoskeletal symptoms. Additionally, most maintenance tasks performed were considered risky. Prompt interventions are necessary to address these findings.

A Study on the Internationalization of Korea’s Aircraft Maintenance Personnel Qualification System and Training

A Study on the Internationalization of Korea’s Aircraft Maintenance Personnel Qualification System and Training

Enhancing Community Self-Sufficiency: A Case Study of Motorcycle Maintenance Training in North Balikpapan

Enhancing Community Self-Sufficiency: A Case Study of Motorcycle Maintenance Training in North Balikpapan

Resilient Artificial Intelligence in Health: Synthesis and Research Agenda Toward Next-Generation Trustworthy Clinical Decision Support.

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based clinical decision support systems are gaining momentum by relying on a greater volume and variety of secondary use data. However, the uncertainty, variability, and biases in real-world data environments still pose significant challenges to the development of health AI, its routine clinical use, and its regulatory frameworks. Health AI should be resilient against real-world environments throughout its lifecycle, including the training and prediction phases and maintenance during production, and health AI regulations should evolve accordingly. Data quality issues, variability over time or across sites, information uncertainty, human-computer interaction, and fundamental rights assurance are among the most relevant challenges. If health AI is not designed resiliently with regard to these real-world data effects, potentially biased data-driven medical decisions can risk the safety and fundamental rights of millions of people. In this viewpoint, we review the challenges, requirements, and methods for resilient AI in health and provide a research framework to improve the trustworthiness of next-generation AI-based clinical decision support.

Training And Assistance In Maintenance, Intensification, Rehabilitation Of Coffee Plant In Colol Village, Lamba Leda District, East Manggarai District

Coffee is one of the dominant plantation crops in Colol Village, Lamba Leda District. Colol Village, Lamba Leda District, is one of the coffee development centers in East Manggarai Regency. The aim of this community service activity is to develop and develop farmers through the coffee commodity business in order to produce quality and reliable human resources. Reliable human resources will be able to manage all existing natural resource potential to produce quality coffee, both in terms of production and productivity, so as to create added value and competitiveness according to market needs. Apart from that, in the long term it is hoped that this activity will be able to increase the income of coffee farmers and create jobs as well as being able to increase the competitiveness of the coffee value chain by providing more business opportunities in the coffee plantation subsector. East Manggarai Regency, especially Colol Village, Lamba Leda District. The focus of implementing this service is increasing the knowledge and skills capacity of farmers in managing coffee plants through maintenance, intensification and rehabilitation to improve the quality of the harvest. Through training and mentoring activities, coffee farmers are able to carry out coffee maintenance, intensification and rehabilitation.